Social Work Supervisor

Role overview

Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children is looking for an experienced social work supervisor to join its Rotorua Youth Justice team on a permanent full-time basis. The position suits someone who is committed to improving outcomes for tamariki, rangatahi and whānau, and who can guide both seasoned and developing social workers in a busy, fast-moving environment.

The role is based in Rotorua, a location noted for geothermal attractions, outdoor adventure, lakes, mountain biking, rafting, walking tracks including the Redwood forest, luging, fishing and spa experiences, with coastal beaches about an hour away and Tongariro National Park and ski fields around 2.5 hours away.

The advertised salary range is $103,785.12 to $125,800.14, depending on experience. There is 1 permanent, full-time vacancy.

What the role involves

• Applying mana tamaiti, whakapapa and whanaungatanga in day-to-day practice so responses remain centred on tamariki and whānau Māori.
• Working in a role that is varied, high-paced and often requires balancing several situations at once.
• Listening to the voices of tamariki and rangatahi and supporting them, along with their families/whānau, to make positive changes.
• Partnering with people from a range of cultural backgrounds and with different communities.
• Carrying out initial safety checks and assessments for children, young people and their families/whānau.
• Collaborating with community partners, non-government organisations and state sector agencies.
• Helping children and young people move safely back to family/whānau or into a permanent forever home.
• Advocating for tamariki so they receive the support and resources needed to achieve their potential.

What you will bring

• Proven ability to lead and support other social workers, or to lead initiatives that strengthen social work practice.
• Strong cultural awareness and a sound understanding of Tikanga Māori principles.
• Current full registration with the New Zealand Social Work Registration Board.
• A social work qualification recognised by the Social Work Registration Board.
• A full, clean and valid driver licence.
• Experience in planning, financial control, resource allocation and performance monitoring.
• Experience working in complex environments where political sensitivity matters.
• Capability or strong potential to supervise and manage line reports.
• The confidence to handle critical situations, make difficult decisions under pressure and remain resilient.
• Excellent verbal communication skills with the ability to tailor your message to different audiences.
• The ability to explain complex ideas clearly, build rapport and maintain effective working relationships.
• Respect for cross-cultural practice, including knowledge of tikanga Māori and Pacific peoples' culture.

About the organisation

Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children is focused on placing tamariki and rangatahi at the centre of its work. Its purpose is to help ensure all tamariki grow up in loving whānau and communities where oranga tamariki can be realised.

The organisation says its values are to put Tamariki first, believe Aroha is vital, respect the Mana of people, be Tika and Pono, value Whakapapa, and recognise that Oranga is a journey. It also emphasises the importance of getting involved early in children's lives and showing care and love so they have the best chance to become happy, thriving New Zealanders.

What is offered

• A vibrant and supportive team environment.
• Flexible work options.
• A genuine focus on wellbeing.
• Substantial training and professional development opportunities.
• Regular supervision and appropriate breaks to support kaimahi ora and wellbeing.

Application process and important notes

Applicants are expected to submit a CV and cover letter online. Current employees should apply using their Oranga Tamariki email login. The closing date is Thursday 9 July 2026, although applications may close earlier if a preferred candidate is identified, as applications and interviews will be progressed on a rolling basis.

Anyone considering a role with the organisation should be familiar with its code of conduct, including the expectation to attend work free from the influence of drugs and alcohol.

If you have questions about the role, a contact was referenced in the source text but no contact details were provided.